I get this alarm clock because I just recently get some roommate that share a wall with I , and I also have a fan that run all night that be very loud . I read review for many different sound machine and this one seem like the most bang for they buck , on account i do not get all of they I can not be certain . I sleep with the Northwoods set which be just great , feel like I be camp , I be disappoint by the fireside which seem to quiet , the rain sound too ... I do not even know how to describe it , but I have fun go through a listen to they , and there be plenty of good one in there . the back light be by no means too bright , the whole display do light up and that seem unnecessary but it be certainly not too bright , I be very picky about that . I have not try to use sound for the alarm because I have do so in the past and they work they way into my dream and do not wake I up , so I use the beep which also stop the sound and work well , certainly not a horrible alarm to wake up to and start I off stressed . all in all I would say if you be look for a alarm clock or a soothing sound maker this be a good buy for the money , the price be not all that much , if you just have to have the most picture perfect , crystal clear , realistic , non-repetitive sound while you sleep ... order one of these , find out which one you like and then move to where those sound be real ... or you can spend the $ 40 and enjoy this device .